Chennai: Renowned Tamil film producer and distributor G Venkateshwaran, elder brother of well-known director Mani Ratnam, allegedly committed suicide at his residence at Chetput on May 3, police said.

Venkateshwaran, popularly known in film circles as "GV", hung himself from a ceiling fan in his bedroom, using his own dhoti, film industry sources said.

He was 56 and is survived by wife, a son and a daughter. The son is in Canada now while his daughter is in Delhi.

Though the exact cause of death was not immediately known, heavy financial problems were stated to be the reason for his extreme decision to end his life. Police is investigating the cause of his death.

He had produced nearly 18 films, including several hits like 'Anjali', 'Naayagan' and 'Agni Nakshatram'. After a gap of six years, he produced three films this year, including 'Tamizhan' and 'Sokka Thangam'. Some of his films failed at the box office some years ago.

Several prominent film personalities, including Rajnikant, Vijaykant and Anandraj made a beeline to his residence on hearing the news to pay their last respects.

Vijaykant, president of the Tamil Film Artistes' Association, told reporters at Venkateshwaran's residence that the entire film industry was shocked to learn of the "sad end" of the producer, known for his "bravery".

PTI